New Delhi, February 26: The Supreme Court has taken a firm stance regarding objectionable references to corruption in the judiciary found in the NCERT Class 8 Social Science textbook. Led by Chief Justice Suryakant, the bench labeled this as a deliberate attempt to tarnish the reputation of the judiciary and ordered the book to be withdrawn from the market. The next hearing is scheduled for March 11.
The Supreme Court has indicated that it will investigate the matter, having raised concerns about a specific chapter just a day prior. The court emphasized that it will not allow any disparagement of the judiciary. Following the court’s objections, NCERT has decided to rewrite the book.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing NCERT, apologized in this suo motu case. In response, the Chief Justice remarked that the media had circulated a notice that did not contain an apology.
He stated, “It is our institutional responsibility to ascertain whether this content was published in the book. The message sent to the Registrar General indicated that the relevant department was defending it. This is a deep conspiracy.”
The Solicitor General informed the court that action has been taken against the two individuals responsible for preparing the chapter, stating they will no longer be able to work with the UGC or any ministry.
In response, the Chief Justice remarked, “It would be too easy for them to escape accountability. They shot the bullet, and the judiciary is bleeding.” Mehta also stated that 32 copies that had reached the market were recalled, and a comprehensive review of the entire book will be conducted.
The Chief Justice commented that merely taking action against two individuals is insufficient. He raised concerns about whether copies of the book are still available in the market or online, urging for their immediate withdrawal.
Senior lawyers Kapil Sibal and Dr. Abhishek Manu Singhvi brought this issue before the Chief Justice’s bench. Sibal expressed concern over teaching Class 8 students about corruption in the judiciary, stating that as members of the institution, they find this troubling.
Chief Justice Suryakant emphasized that the Constitution ensures a balance and autonomy among the legislature, executive, and judiciary. Therefore, any material that undermines the reputation of any constitutional body is extremely serious.
He warned that if such notions take root in the minds of youth and parents, it could erode trust in judicial institutions.
The court clarified that a thorough investigation will be conducted to determine who is responsible for the publication of this material. Meanwhile, the Solicitor General assured that the controversial chapter will be removed and a revised version will be republished. The court reiterated that any compromise on the judiciary’s credibility will not be tolerated.